Human trafficking bill clears Ohio Senate

COLUMBUS -- An Ohio bill that increases criminal penalties for human trafficking and creates a fund to help victims has cleared one of its final legislative hurdles.

The Ohio Senate unanimously passed the measure on Tuesday to tackle what's described as modern day slavery.

The bill would create a path for human trafficking victims to have their records expunged if they have prostitution or solicitation charges as a result of being trafficked. It also would make human trafficking a first-degree felony, punishable by up to 15 years in prison.

The House unanimously approved it last month, and it's expected to agree to the Senate's changes on Wednesday.

The governor has made the bill a priority as the General Assembly looks to wrap up its work this week before breaking for the summer.